10 Best Universities in South Korea for International Students in 2026-27
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South Korean universities are known for their cutting-edge research and international collaborations. This article covers top 10 universities in South Korea in 2025, their admission process and more.
The 400 universities in South Korea offer quality education and advanced research facilities. This article presents top 10 universities in South Korea and costs of living and studying involved.
Also Read:
- Top Reasons to Study in Korea
- Top 10 Universities in South Korea 2025-26
- Admission Procedure to Universities in South Korea
- Cost of Studying in South Korea
Top Reasons to Study in Korea
Korea has built a history of prioritising excellence in education over the years. With combined efforts made by government and educational institutions of South Korea, the country is set to offer one of best education systems in the world. The average annual tuition fee in South Korea ranges from ₹ 8 L to ₹ 10 L which is pretty low than most other countries. The government also tends to support incoming international students by giving away a large number of GKS scholarships which cover the complete tuition and offer several more benefits to students. In addition, Korean universities also offer scholarships to international students based on the basis of their applications.
South Korea is one of the safest countries in the world for students, as the country has very low crime rate. The country's geographical location also keep it safe from natural disasters.
South Korea is home to Samsung Electronics and Hyundai Motors which makes it globally renowned for its R&D, engineering and Information & Communications Technology (ICT).
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| MS in South Korea |
Top 10 Universities in South Korea 2025-26
Here is a list of some of the best universities in South Korea in 2025 for students looking to study in the country.
| Best Universities in South Korea 2025-26 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Universities |
QS World University Rankings 2026 |
THE World University Rankings 2025 |
| Seoul, South Korea. |
=38 |
=62 |
| Seoul, South Korea. |
#50 |
=102 |
| Seoul, South Korea. |
#61 |
=189 |
| Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, South Korea. |
#102 |
#151 |
| Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) Suwon, South Korea. |
=126 |
=102 |
| Seoul, South Korea. |
#159 |
#251-300 |
| Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, South Korea. |
=310 |
#201-250 |
| Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea |
=331 |
#251-300 |
| Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, South Korea. |
#370 |
#351-400 |
| Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) Gwangju, South Korea. |
=385 |
#401-500 |
Note:- The Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology, KAIST, is excluded from the QS World University Rankings 2026 owing to its controversial survey. The institute a #53rd position globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
Admission Procedure to Universities in South Korea
Candidates looking to study in top universities in South Korea can check out the detailed admission procedure outlined for the ease of our readers.
Cost of Studying in South Korea
The cost of studying is an important component when deciding to study abroad. The cost of studying mainly makes up the tuition cost of studying in the universities of Korea, living expenses in the country, and miscellaneous expenditures. We have brought together the average tuition cost of studying in Korean universities for international students and living expenses. Students will be able to get a rough picture of the investment they would need to make to study abroad.
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Tuition Cost for Studying in South Korea
This is an estimate of tuition cost or cost of studying in South Korea for international students. Candidates should note that real values could be a little different depending on university to university; however, this is what they can expect to pay for studying in Korea.
Cost of living in South Korea
Below is the rough estimate of what a student planning to study in South Korea can expect to pay while in the country.
Check in Detail: Cost of Living in South Korea 2024
Note: the above tables have been sourced from studyinkorea.go.kr
Candidates can get in touch with us in the comments below for more queries regarding the top universities in South Korea. Candidates can also get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad counsellors.
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For S. Korean scholarships -
- Find the available South Korean scholarships for your course and college
- Check their application window to apply timely
- Check whether you're eligible for the scholarship or not
- If eligible, collect required documents such as LORs, SOPs and marksheets
- Submit scholarship application and if required - appear for interview.
To get into Seoul National University, Indian students need to-
- Meet eligibility criteria; which includes - academic excellence, language proficiency and standardised test scores.
- Choose an admission track from international admissions I or II.
- Prepare application materials such as transcripts, language test scores, LORs, SOPs and additional documents.
- Apply online via SNU admissions website.
- Prepare for interviews if required
- Await the admission decision
Pick your stage and get free guidance from counsellors who've helped thousands get into top universities.
Starting research
Shortlisting colleges
Exam preparation
SOP/LOR writing
Scholarship & finance
Visa application
Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum Vitae
Yes, Indian students can study at SNU Korea as long as they are applying as a freshman and not as transfer students. Generally SNU does not accept credits achieved from other higher education institutes. Therefore, transfer students from Indian universities may not get through the application round, let alone the screening round.